News

Hawaii’s Kilauea Volcano is the Most Active Volcano in the United States

The latest US geological survey update, released on the 24^th October is an update on the 2005 report and looks at the risk of a volcano erupting with five ratings form very low to very high. Kilauea was given an overall “threat score” of 263, compared to Mount St. Helens’ 235 and Mount Ranier’s 203. This score puts Kilaueu into the very high category. The scoring system takes into account the likelihood of eruption and the risk of an eruption to nearby populations

The report concentrates on the USA but covers most of the pacific rim.

The report, released Thursday, is designed to help policymakers, scientists and those living near volcanoes better understand the risks. It’s the first update to the U.S. Geological Survey’s volcano threat assessments since 2005.

“This report may come as a surprise to many, but not to volcanologists,” said Concord University volcano expert Janine Krippner. “The USA is one of the most active countries in the world when it comes to volcanic activity,” she said, noting there have been 120 eruptions in U.S. volcanoes since 1980.

Picture for illustration.